Football icon Lionel Messi has opened up about the important role his father, Jorge Messi, played in his journey to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Messi reportedly recalled facing a major health challenge as a child, revealing that he was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency at the age of 11 and that his father helped pay for his treatment before Barcelona eventually became involved.
“When I was 11, I suffered from growth hormone deficiency, and my dad paid for my treatment before Barça came,” Messi reportedly said.
The Argentine star also spoke about the different roles played by the people closest to him, highlighting the support he has received from both his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and his father.
According to Messi, Antonela plays a central role in taking care of their children, while his father has remained deeply involved in his football career and professional affairs.
“Antonela takes care of my kids, but my father took care of my football career,” he said.
Messi further revealed that his father continues to support him closely, including communicating with him after matches and managing aspects of his business interests.
“After every game, he would text me, and he manages my business,” Messi reportedly added.
The comments offer a glimpse into the family support behind Messi’s remarkable career, from his childhood struggles in Argentina to his rise to global football stardom.
For many fans, the revelation is a reminder that behind the trophies, records and worldwide fame was a young boy whose family made significant sacrifices to help him pursue his dream.
Messi’s journey eventually took him from Rosario to Barcelona, where he developed into a football superstar and went on to win numerous major honours, including the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022.
His latest remarks have therefore resonated with fans who continue to celebrate the people who helped shape his extraordinary career.
